House Bill 1696 Summary

• Replaces the Mississippi Recovery School District with a new "District of Transformation" system for failing schools and districts, with placement based on two consecutive years of "F" ratings, four consecutive years of "D" or "F" ratings, or over 50% of schools designated as "Schools-At-Risk."

• Districts placed into District of Transformation for academic performance become eligible to return to local control after achieving a "C" rating or higher for three consecutive years (reduced from five years).

• Transitions the Yazoo City Municipal School District and Humphreys County School District from the Mississippi Achievement School District into separate Districts of Transformation by July 1, 2025, and dissolves the Mississippi Achievement School District effective that date.

• Allows the State Board of Education to place districts into District of Transformation without requiring a gubernatorial declaration of emergency, while maintaining authority to assign interim superintendents and take operational control.

• Establishes new procedures for reconstituting school boards and hiring superintendents after district transformation, including a two-year transition period where interim superintendents work alongside newly appointed boards.